Division of Crop Improvement
At
IISR, Lucknow, a small unit as Botany and Breeding section was started under the
control of Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore serving as its Regional
Centre for evaluation of sugarcane varieties for this region. In the year 1969,
this section was transferred to IISR, Lucknow. The section was elevated to
Division of Botany and Breeding. In 1989, it was renamed as Division of Crop
Improvement. As per Institute's mandate, the scientists of the Division
conducted fundamental and applied research on sugar crops (sugarcane and
sugarbeet). Evaluation and enrichment of germplasm were also initiated for its
utilization for varietal improvement for the subtropics. In the year 1994, the
mandate of the institute was again revised. However, on the recommendation of
RAC constituted in 1994, the ICAR approved the under mentioned mandate for the
research work to be conducted by Division of Crop Improvement:
Mission
- To develop sugarcane varieties resistant to red rot for higher sugar productivity.
Thrust Areas
- To develop suitable varieties for sub tropical India
- Genetic enhancement in traits of economic importance through gene introgression from Saccharum complex
- Increasing breeding efficiency through biotechnological interventions
- Sugarbeet breeding for Indian agro-climates and its adaptation
Facilities available
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Lab: PCR, Electrophoresis (Vertical and Horizontal), DNA Sequencing Gel, High Speed Refrigerated Centrifuge, Deep Freezer (-80oC), Water purification system, Hybridization Oven etc.
- Cytogenetics Lab: Cytogenetics work station, Thermal Cycler with in situ module, Freeze Dryer, Gel Doc System, Electrophoresis System with Power Pack etc.
- DUS Testing Facility: 108 reference varieties of sugarcane are being maintained for DUS characterization and comparison of new sugarcane varieties.
- Glass house/ Poly house facilities: These facilities are being utilized for fluff sowing and seedlings raising of sugarcane.
Head of Division : Dr A D Pathak
